Exploring the Potential of α-MnO₂/ Carbon Nanotubes for Improved Oxygen Reduction Reaction Performance at the Cathode of Alkaline Fuel Cells

Abstract:

In the field of fuel cell technology, the development of cost-effective catalysts is crucial for the commercialization of Alkaline Membrane Fuel Cells (AMFCs). Platinum (Pt) has traditionally been employed as the catalyst in AMFCs, but its high cost poses a major barrier to widespread adoption. In this study, a new catalyst material was developed by incorporating Manganese Dioxide (α-MnO₂) into Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) using hydrothermal synthesis techniques. The synthesized catalyst was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and its electrocatalytic activity was evaluated through Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV) and CV through Rotating Disc Electrode (RDE) experiments. The results showed that the α-MnO₂-CNT composite displayed strong durability in the alkaline environment and high electrocatalytic activity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The LSV measurements revealed a current density of -4.1 mA/cm² and an overpotential of -0.3V relative to Standard Calomel Electrode (SCE) in a 0.1M KOH electrolyte. Additionally, the α-MnO₂-CNT composite displayed high methanol tolerance and long-term stability compared to commercial Pt/C catalysts. This study demonstrates that the use of α-MnO₂-CNT as a cost-effective alternative to Pt has the potential to facilitate the commercialization of AMFC technology.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volume 1179)
• Pages: 111-122
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-1ljOcN
• Online since: January 2024
• Authors: Abid Ullah*, Basharat Hussain, Muhammad Raheel Khan, Kamran Alam, Muhammad Humayun, Muhammad Arif
• Keywords: Alkaline Membrane Fuel Cell, Carbon Nanotubes, Oxygen Reduction Reaction, α-MnO₂-CNTs (Carbon Nanotubes)

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